Chelsea ace has choice to make as new twist emerges in contract saga
Reports claim defender Antonio Rudiger has many options open to him and could even stay at Chelsea if talks prove to be successful.
The 28-year-old has been with the Blues for four years after Chelsea paid Roma around £29m in July 2017. He penned a five-year deal at Stamford Bridge and has one year of that left to run. It was reported by Sky Sports back in June that the Germany international was desperate to sign a contract extension.
However, the west Londoners seemed indifferent to the idea and talks were put back until the summer. The giant centre-half saw plenty of action under Thomas Tuchel in the second half of last season.
He started 19 Premier League games and helped the club finish in the top four. The former Stuttgart ace played the full 90 minutes as Chelsea beat Manchester City in the final to win the Champions League.
But recent reports have suggested that the centre-half might opt for a new challenge away from the capital. Sky Sports are reporting that Rudiger is ‘weighing up his options’ ahead of a possible switch of club.
He will be free to talk to foreign clubs over a possible pre-contract agreement in January. And both Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are thought to be keen.
There is also a slim chance that he may leave before the summer transfer window closes. But the Berlin-born stopper revealed earlier this week that dialogue over a renewal has now begun.
“As I said before, I wanted to concentrate on the Euros then after I come back, talks can start,” he said. “That is what has happened for now. Talks have begun and we will see what time brings.”
Tuchel hints at new Rudiger deal
Tuchel put his faith in Rudiger and gave him plenty of game time over the final few months of 2020-2021. The German tactician was impressed with his compatriot.
And speaking last season, he backed the man with 45 Germany caps to earn a new deal.
“Nothing is better than what he is doing now for a new contract,” said Tuchel. “If he wants to have a new contract, he has our full support to stay at the club.
“He is speaking with his performances. He has been amazing since day one.”
Chelsea kick off heir Premier League campaign with the visit of Patrick Vieira’s Crystal Palace on Saturday.
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